Karnes County farmers and ranchers who plan on selling cattle outside of the state now have additional standards to meet.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) animal disease traceability final rule took effect March 11, and local livestock owners are required to comply, according to Zack Yanta, president of Karnes County Farm Bureau.

However, the rule only affects cattle raisers selling cows or bulls over 18 months of age interstate. “Livestock of this age will need a permanent identification number, as well as a certificate of veterinary inspection to verify that they are in good health,” Zack said.

Details on the new federal tagging requirement can be found at www.aphis.usda.gov/traceability. Cattle sold within the borders of Texas fall under the Texas Animal Health Commission’s (TAHC) tagging requirements, which can be found at http://www.tahc.state.tx.us.